The New York Jets have released linebacker Bryan Thomas, an unexpected move for the longest tenured member of the team. Taking his spot on the roster will be cornerback Donnie Fletcher, a rookie out of Boston College who was signed to the 53-man roster off the practice squad.
Thomas has been struggling with a hamstring issue and was listed as doubtful for this Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins. He was New York's first-round pick in 2002 and has the second-most postseason appearances in franchise history. But head coach Rex Ryan and GM Mike Tannenbaum were more concerned about depth in the secondary, so they opted to go with the rookie Fletcher.
Because of his tenure in the league, Thomas' contract is guaranteed this season and he could be back with the team in the coming week. He's now a free agent so it's unlikely he's out of work for long. Thomas recorded just one tackle in the Jets' season-opening win over the Buffalo Bills.
After a Week 2 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Jets now travel to Miami this Sunday for a divisional matchup against the Dolphins.
For more on the Jets, visit Gang Green Nation.
This post was originally published on SB Nation.